Teachers union leader: Poor leadership crippling OKC school district

Coming together as a community will be difficult, even painful at times, but not nearly as difficult and painful as standing by while another generation of our children aren't given every opportunity to become productive citizens and achieve their dreams.

The union stands ready to work with others and do our part in changing our district culture and raising student achievement. The grading scandal can be an opportunity for leaders to make real change. Now is the time for a concerted effort to put the public back into public education. As citizens and community leaders, are we willing to share our time, talent and treasure to affect change?

Or will we leave a failing school district in the hands of those who can't get the job done?

Allen is president of the Oklahoma City American Federation of Teachers.